Inverness teen's African adventure 'may inspire other young people in care to reach their goals'
A dream will soon come true for Caitlin Goss when she journeys from Inverness to Africa to help look after wildlife.
The 18-year-old’s four weeks as a volunteer in a conservation safari camp in Zimbabwe will happen in June – after £6500 was raised locally to make it happen.
Caitlin has lived in a Highland Council children’s residential unit in Inverness for over three years and has needed support for her emotional wellbeing.
Elaine Hollinger, who runs the unit, said: “Caitlin is a very kind and caring young person who has struggled to look to the future, but the prospect of this project has given her a focus and greatly improved her motivation.
“The change in her has been simply amazing – and it’s great to see.
“She has a passion for animals and this project involves volunteering on a conservation project, supporting wildlife, largely on horseback and learning how to run an African stable.
“By sharing her experience and journey, the hope is that Caitlin may inspire other young people in care to reach their goals.”
Caitlin said: “I go riding and love horses and this Zimbabwe adventure has stemmed from that. It will involve looking after animals, including four orphaned elephants plus zebras and lions, as well as the project’s stable of horses.
“I’ll patrol the perimeter, ensuring the fences are OK, and spotting and disabling snares set to trap giraffes and other creatures. I can hardly credit that I’ll soon have this opportunity.
“I’m so hugely grateful to all those people who helped and supported the fundraising. I climbed Ben Nevis to raise cash – that was really gruelling!”
Cairngorm Windows has donated £500 from Jennifer’s Fund, set up last year in memory of Jennifer McBurnie, daughter of the firm’s chairman David Dowling and sister of joint managing directors Chris and Scott Dowling.
“I hope this experience will open Caitlin’s eyes to travel and new experiences, while confirming her commitment to helping wildlife,” Chris said. “We’re delighted to be able to help a young woman from a challenging background to make progress towards living a fulfilling life.”
Elaine and Caitlin organised raffles, baking sales, a bingo/quiz night and family fun day to raise funds for the trip.
“It was hard work but enjoyable”, said Elaine, who will accompany Caitlin to Zimbabwe, flying from Inverness to London and then to Harare where they will then be transported to the Worldwide Vets conservation project.
“It has opened Caitlin’s eyes in a positive way and she has now started working part-time as an administrator with the council, which is another key step forward.
“It was a very pleasant surprise to receive £500 from Cairngorm to top off our events’ fundraising efforts. We’re very grateful.”
